Kukhura ko Masu Tarkari (Nepali Chicken Curry)
A flavorful and aromatic Nepali chicken curry, Kukhura ko Masu Tarkari is a popular dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich gravy of onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of traditional Nepali spices. It's often served with rice or roti.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken(bone-in or boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1.5 cups Onion(sliced)
- 6 cloves Garlic(chopped)
- 1 inch Ginger(chopped)
- 1 medium Tomato(chopped)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.66 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Red chili powder(adjust to taste)
- 1.5 tsp Meat masala powder
- 2 no. Green chilies(slit)
- to taste Salt
- handful Coriander leaves(chopped, for garnish)
- 1.5 cups Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and slit green chilies. Stir-fry until onions are golden brown.
- 2
Add the chicken pieces and cook over medium to high heat, stirring continuously, until the color changes, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Stir in the chopped ginger and garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- 4
Lower the heat and add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, meat masala powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly so the chicken is well coated with the spices. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- 5
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and blend into the curry, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 6
Pour in the water. Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well combined.
- 7
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Cover the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken with turmeric, salt, and a little oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of red chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference.
- ✓If the curry becomes too thick, add a little more hot water.
🔄 Variations
- Add potatoes or other vegetables like cauliflower or peas along with the chicken.
- Use chicken thighs for a more succulent curry.